Tyson Feist will don the 'C' for the Kelowna Rockets this season

Photo: Paige Bednorz

Tyson Feist has been named captain of the Kelowna Rockets.

Feist succeeds Nolan Foote as the 26th captain in club history, dating back to their time in Tacoma.

The team did not go with a captain during last year's pandemic-shortened season.

"I am very excited that we are naming Tyson Feist our team captain," said Rockets president and GM Bruce Hamilton.

"He brings excellent leadership skills to our team this year. I know he has earned the respect of his fellow teammates with his tremendous work ethic. His never back down attitude will spread throughout our team every day they are together.

"He has improved every day since he has joined our organization. We are all very happy and proud of Tyson, and look forward to him being our team captain this year."

The 20-year-old Dawson Creek native is entering his fourth and final Western Hockey League season.

In 122 games with Spokane, Regina and the Rockets, Feist has four goals, 33 points and 128 penalty minutes.

He posted career highs during the shortened season with two goals and 10 points.

"Tyson exudes leadership and character," said Rockets head coach Kris Mallette.

"He will be a great example for our group both on and off the ice."

Feist called the captaincy a "huge honour," especially in an organization that has had a lot of great captains.

The Rockets have yet to name any assistant captains.

Feist, who earned an invite to the Arizona Coyotes training camp, will debut in his new role when the Rockets open the 2021-2022 season Friday night in Victoria.